Handheld Vhf smartphone option

[luckybeanz]

I've been waiting for something like this to come out and it seems that the technology is finally here. Has anyone checked out the Ulefone Armor 26 Ultra 5G ?

It covers the Marine bands and has a range of up to 30km

Type: Dual-mode (digital/analog) dual-band (UHF/VHF), dual-slot, support DMR
Frequency Range: UHF Band: 400MHz-470MHz
VHF Band: 137MHz-172MHz
Operating Range: UHF Band: 0-22KM
VHF Band: 0-30KM
App: PrizeInterPhone
Shortcut Key: PTT Key (One-key to talk)

Has anyone used one of considered it as a handheld option?

 

[Oscar24]

Not used one but 30KM out of a VHF hand held device using its stubby antenna seems a little optimistic if you ask me
Could be a handy addition if the main set fails

 

[luckybeanz]

Not used one but 30KM out of a VHF hand held device using its stubby antenna seems a little optimistic if you ask me
Could be a handy addition if the main set fails

It has a add on antenna for VHF, which looks about the length of a normal handheld.
It certainly wouldn't replace the normal ships VHF.

 

[ylop]

Impressive specs that could be handy for someone in a kayak, paddle board etc. I assume it’s not type approved for marine use - it looked like the usability would be terrible compared to hitting ch16 and talking.

 

[Bilgediver]

This will at best give no more range than any other walkie talkie aand unless easily programmed may not display channel numbers . The 30 mile range may be achieved using repeaters in DMR modes etc.
Rather an expensive toy and not really great for serious use .

 

[wonkywinch]

Icom launched one earlier this year -

Icom IP-M60 - LTE & VHF Marine Hybrid Transceiver

 

[Bilgediver]

Icom launched one earlier this year -

Icom IP-M60 - LTE & VHF Marine Hybrid Transceiver

This one would be a better option as the radio side would be configured as a marine radio so more user friendly.

 

[Paddy Fields]

Icom launched one earlier this year -

Icom IP-M60 - LTE & VHF Marine Hybrid Transceiver

£789!!!!